Sustainable & Peak Oil Ambitions

It’s that time of year when many people begin to think about their New Years resolution(s).  I gave up indulging in such thoughts years ago when I realized it was a sure set-up for failure and self loathing.  What I am in the habit of doing at the end of the year is creating 1 year and 3-5 year goals.  Since this is the time of year I usually travel to see family, this is a great way to kill time while on the plane or while taking a driving break.

Lacking in Solar Forethought

Remember I installed a passive solar water heater in July, then I gave the electric bill update?  Well, here’s the winter update.  I’m thankful the installer talked me into installing a relief valve on the roof, intended to open as the temperature drops.  Even in our climate, we had a light freeze a few weeks ago that caused the water heater valve to open up and begin dripping.  There were icicles on the roof, a rare event (I’ll get pics next time).  This is a good thing since it keeps the exposed pipes from bursting.  As far as efficiency is concerned, it has dropped drastically in the winter months (Nov. - Feb.)  I have trees on the south of my property that block the sun in the winter - not good solar design I’ve discovered.  Unfortunately, I wasn’t thinking about passive solar at the time of design, so maybe others can learn from my mistakes.  Some sunlight does reach over the trees, but it’s only for about 2-3 hours, not enough to sustain a descent temperature.  The installation contractor did warn me about this.  As far as the electric bill is concerned, it’s gone down to about $77 since the air conditioning has been off and the heat has been minimal.  In fact, the heat hasn’t been on for a week or two.  I keep the thermostat on about 66 degrees F and purchased a little space heater to put under my desk if I need it.  Since I’m in my office all day, there is no need to heat the rest of the house.  That hardly matters when it’s 75 outside like today.